Stop Pining Over the Rooms in Your Favorite Catalogs -- They're Not Realistic

Want to know another pet peeve of mine (I told you I had too many!). Catalog rooms. You know the kind -- rooms that are immaculately decorated, yet the look is very reminiscent of that CB2 catalog that just arrived last week. I'm reminded of the old Friends episode where Rachel slowly transforms her and Phoebe's apartment into a dead ringer Pottery Barn storefront.

Not to mention a total lack of originality, there's something very important about a catalog's styling --- they're not meant for living. All form and no function, a catalog's purpose is to sell products, not create a cozy atmosphere for your family. Don't believe us? I chatted with fellow stylist Cassandra LaValle to give us the inside scoop on why you should never decorate your home like the catalogs:

"The reason catalogs put as many pieces into one space as possible is obviously to showcase all their products in as many scenarios as they can, making them appealing in different room styles to appeal to a larger audience," Cassandra explains. "If your style is more of a 'collective' look, then this can make sense for you on a certain level, but a well-edited home often makes for a more soothing space." So what does Cassandra recommend for those catalog culprits? "My advice is to be patient and to learn what it is you love. I always start my interior design projects by asking my clients to look through photos of spaces and pull out anything that appeals to them - I have yet to have anyone hand me an entire Pottery Barn catalog and say "I want this!" It may not be easier to take the time to create a more collected style, but it will be a lot more personal and incredibly worth it in the end!"

Worth it indeed. In fact, studies have shown that a well-edited and pared-down home decreases stress in the long run. Learn to stress-proof your home and never purchase more than you need. "Many of us over-shop when it comes to accessories for our homes. I'm completely guilty of having too many linens, candlesticks, decorative vases and other pieces cluttering my shelves or sitting in closets. Before we purchase more, it's important to always ask ourselves what it is we really need. Ask yourself why you're holding onto things that never even see the light of day. Are they heirlooms that just aren't your style? Maybe another relative would like to have them. If they are sentimental, they certainly aren't doing any good collecting dust! Put them to use or donate them."

Amen, sister! So next time the CB2 catalog floats into your mailbox, stop and remember the purpose of catalogs. A home should be lived in -- comfortable, cozy and unique -- with or without the Pottery Barn apothecary table.

Read more about creating a well-edited home:
-How To: Love Life and Not Stuff
-5 Steps to Less Waste in 5 Minutes
-Chores Made Easy: De-Clutter 10 Items in 10 Minutes